The Essex CC guidance is good isn't it!
Hadn't seen that one before but it's similar to others. Every County Council should produce something like that (perhaps this is something the TRF should lobby for?).
Regards speed, the TRF should be "against" excessive speed and perhaps even more importantly aggressive riding. We should be "for" considerate riding and respect for the safety and enjoyment of other users.
Often that will mean that the 25mph voluntary max is about right but it's not as prescriptive as quoting an actual figure. In fact I'm inclined to think that the original decision to quote a specific figure (back in 1873 or when ever it was
) should be reconsidered.
To some extent it has become a rod for out own back as they say.
What matters is that were clear, excessive speed and aggressive riding on green lanes is not acceptable.
It will never be possible for any specific speed to encompass that entirely, although ironically 25mph wasn't a bad starting point.
Regards
Richard